Trainee Payroll Officer

Trainee Payroll Officer

The closing date is 14 June 2026

Join our dynamic payroll team in an exciting role as a Trainee Payroll Officer. We provide payroll services for University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, Rugby St Cross and regional networks. You will receive comprehensive in house training and the opportunity to achieve a Level 3 Payroll Qualification over two years. Upon completion, you will become a Payroll Officer, managing a section of payroll and ensuring accurate and timely processing, inputting and calculations.

Our payroll system is the Electronic Staff Record (ESR), an Oracle based NHS system. Experience with Oracle or ESR is a plus. You should have a strong interest in payroll and HMRC statutory legislation and be proficient in IT, particularly Word, Excel and Outlook.

We are looking for a highly organised and efficient individual with a strong desire to learn and progress. You must be able to meet strict deadlines, handle a high volume of payroll tasks and prioritise your workload effectively. Excellent telephone skills and the ability to manage difficult calls are essential.

Interviews are proposed to take place on 25th & 26th June.

Main duties of the job

The post holder will be trained on all aspects of payroll to assist in the preparation of accurate and timely pay for both a weekly and monthly payroll. This includes occupational and statutory regulations and procedures. The successful applicant will also be trained to become fully conversant with the NHS Electronic Staff Record (ESR). This is a 2 year training programme with the view to become a payroll officer (Band 4) after completion of a payroll knowledge test.

Job responsibilities

• Undertake full training in all aspects of payroll procedures and the NHS Electronic Payroll System (ESR).
• Gain extensive knowledge of all payroll regulations, terms and conditions of employment and statutory legislation.
• During the training period, undertake in house training and enrol in an external Payroll Level 3 course with the Institute of Payroll Professionals.
• Be responsible, under supervision, for the effective correct payment of all staff in accordance with delegated financial responsibilities.
• Gain knowledge of employment related Trust policies and procedures to ensure compliance and provide support to staff and management.
• Increase computer skills for speed and accuracy and demonstrate knowledge and understanding of all payroll related databases.
• Analyse and interpret calculations when assessing employees' financial entitlements.
• Communicate at all levels, and at all times, with the highest level of tact, sensitivity and diplomacy. Exercise well mannered and positive interpersonal skills.

Qualifications and experience

• Strong interest in payroll and HMRC statutory legislation.
• Proficiency in IT, especially Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Organised and efficient with the ability to meet strict deadlines and handle high volume work.
• Excellent telephone skills and ability to manage difficult calls.
• Experience with Oracle or ESR is a plus.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and will require a Disclosure and Barring Service check to identify any previous criminal convictions.